President John Dramani Mahama has been honoured with one of the most prestigious Yoruba chieftaincy titles by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, at a colourful traditional ceremony held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
The revered traditional ruler conferred the title “Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source” on President Mahama on Monday, December 15, 2025. The title loosely translates as “A President who reorganises the global space for humanity.”
The honour recognises President Mahama’s long-standing advocacy for multilateralism, global equity, and sustainable development, as well as his commitment to strengthening cooperation among nations, particularly within Africa.
During his recent engagements on the global stage, including an address to the United Nations, President Mahama underscored the need for collective action in tackling pressing global challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and geopolitical instability. He has consistently called for a fairer international system that amplifies the voices of developing countries in global decision-making.
The palace grounds of the Ooni of Ife were filled with pomp and pageantry as traditional leaders, dignitaries, and members of the local community gathered to witness the historic installation.
Cultural displays, traditional rites, and symbolic ceremonies underscored the deep spiritual and historical significance of the honour.
President Mahama, who already holds the esteemed Yoruba title Aare Atolase of Offa, has long enjoyed warm relations with Yoruba communities.
The Offa Kingdom in Kwara State conferred that title on him in October 2015, with the Olofa of Offa, His Royal Majesty Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye I, describing him at the time as a leader “who ensures the nobility of this Kingdom is maintained.”
The conferment of the Aare Atayeto Oodua of the Source title is expected to further deepen the strong cultural, historical, and diplomatic ties between Ghana and Nigeria, reinforcing shared values and regional solidarity.
The Ooni of Ife is the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife, the ancestral and spiritual home of the Yoruba people, a position that carries immense cultural influence across Nigeria and the wider Yoruba world. Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, who ascended the throne in 2015, is widely respected for promoting Yoruba culture, interfaith harmony, socio-economic development, and closer ties with the African diaspora.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
